10 things you didn't know about Theresa Roberts

Jamaica-born Theresa Roberts is known and celebrated in the United Kingdom and here, in Jamaica, for her love and support of the Arts. A celebrated philanthropist, she is always lending her name and resources to many a charitable cause.

The charming Mrs Roberts has been dubbed 'Jamaica's ambassador plenipotentiary and extraordinary' for her tireless efforts in promoting Jamaica and all things Jamaican in British high society and elsewhere.

She has been described as one of Europe's most prominent collector of Jamaican art. Her Jamaican home, Hanover Grange, is said to be specifically designed to house a number of pieces from her extensive international collection.

Known and celebrated equally for her fashionable soirées and dinners that have made her the toast of British society and one of the reigning social denizens of Tryall, Theresa Roberts is the personification of haute style and grace. As is expected, she is very reticent to talk about herself.

Outlook Magazine persuaded her, however, to share 10 things we did not know about her and today we share them with you, our readers.

1 As a child, growing up in rural Jamaica, if she could not walk to her destination, her only other means of transportation was a donkey.

2 She started her business career selling mangoes by the side of the road in Sandy Ground, St Elizabeth.

3 Like many Jamaicans, she cannot swim.

4 She bought her very first house at age 19.

5 She has never had hair extensions or faux nails.

6 It takes her three hours to get up in the mornings.

7 She is allergic to any metal other than gold or platinum. ("Unlucky for my husband!")

8 Her pet peeve is men with oversized egos.

9. Her grand-children are the centre of her universe and now control her life.

10 She enjoys cooking and consequently does all her own cooking for family events and has cooked for and entertained as many as 120 guests.